The importance of correct and well-fitted winter kit

Where did Summer go? Some are even saying "Did it ever arrive?"
We had the final week in August and the kids went back to School this month, this usually means we'll get mild fine weather.
But that doesn't mean it's not time to start preparing for the coming change in weather conditions and invest in a good quality wetsuit or drysuit to keep you warm when you're in and around the water.

Kayakers, canoeists and paddleboarders
As we move well into Autumn, the air temperature starts to drop and so does the temperature of the water.
It is crucial to have the correct base layers and accessories paired with a great quality drysuit during your kayaking, canoeing or paddleboarding sessions for several reasons:

Thermal protection
They provide a barrier against cold water keeping you dry and warm. This is essential because immersion in cold water can lead to hypothermia, even in relatively mild temperatures. Drysuits come with latex or neoprene gaskets. Latex gaskets sit much closer to the skin to minimise any water intake when submerged. Usually, whitewater paddlers choose drysuits with latex cuffs and neck.

Safety
Wearing a drysuit enhances safety by allowing you to paddle in conditions often otherwise classed as too risky. They enable you to enjoy your sport whilst minimising the risks associated with cold water exposure. With the darker evenings rolling in, it is also wise to choose bright, vibrant-coloured drysuits to be seen easily if you are out after sundown.

Mobility
Drysuits nowadays are designed to offer flexibility and comfort, allowing for a full range of motion while paddling. This is important for maintaining balance and control on your board or in your kayak/canoe to minimise falling in/capsizing. It's important to make sure you try on a few different brands to get the correct fit for your body height and shape. An incorrectly fitted drysuit could be the difference between an enjoyable or uncomfortable experience. If you're still not sure which size to order or if you are between sizes, order 2 and use our Free Returns* Service to return the one that doesn't fit.

Layering up
If you've ever worn a drysuit without a base layer, you'll know how uncomfortable the waterproof material feels against your skin. Drysuits allow for base layers underneath on the top and the bottom, so you can adjust your insulation based on the temperature and activity level. This adaptability can help you manage comfort through your paddle session. They come in various materials from natural to synthetic including neoprene and it's important that they are fitted close to the body, not too restrictive or bunching up from being too big.

Durability
Drysuits are typically made from tough hardwearing materials that withstand the wear and tear associated with outdoor sports and activities. This durability makes them a great investment for frequent paddlers.

Increased enjoyment
Staying warm and dry allows for a more enjoyable session on the water, letting you focus on the beauty of what's around you and your skills rather than focusing on the discomfort of the cold environment.

Check out our full range of quality drysuits and warm base layers. It's important to protect your extremities also with a good pair of gloves and appropriate footwear. For headwear, some helmets have an added insulation lining for the colder days or there are neoprene caps available for under your helmet.

 

Winter surfing/bodyboarding
The same reasons go for the winter surfers and bodyboarders out there. Surfing and bodyboarding during the Winter can be a thrilling adventure offering clean waves and fewer crowds, but it also comes with challenges - most notably, the cold water/air temperature. To truly enjoy those winter swells, a good quality, well-fitted wetsuit is crucial.

Thermal insulation
The primary function of a wetsuit is to provide thermal insulation. Cold water rapidly sucks your body heat so without adequate protection you can become uncomfortable very quickly or worse, hypothermic. Almost all wetsuits are designed to trap a thin layer of water between the wetsuit and your skin. Your body heat warms up this layer of water creating a thermal barrier. The wetsuit must fit as well as it can which will minimise any more water entry ensuring that the first layer of water remains warm and effective. It's important to note that warming up and raising your heart rate to get blood pumping around the body before you enter the water can make a big difference in how warm you'll be and remain.

Comfort and mobility
A well-fitted wetsuit also allows for maximum mobility. If a wetsuit is too tight it can restrict movement and become uncomfortable. If a wetsuit is too loose with folds in the neoprene around the body, water gathers in these folds and your body will not be able to heat the excess water coming in, you'll get extremely cold very quickly and not enjoy the experience.
A well-fitted wetsuit should feel quite snug all over the body, especially around the lower back area where our important organs are (note a new wetsuit will almost feel too tight and will mould to your body shape through time) It should allow for the flexibility needed to paddle and perform different manoeuvres on your board.

Durability and protection
Quality wetsuits are made from durable materials that can withstand the harsh, cold Winter elements and also protect your skin from abrasions as well as the cold temperatures.

Enhance performance
If you are warm and comfortable in the water, it is more than likely you will perform better. Having a good quality, well-fitted wetsuit results in efficiency during your sessions focussing on your skills and manoeuvres.

Confidence boost
Winter surfing can be a daunting experience, especially if you're not used to big heavy swell days, but having the correctly fitted, appropriate gear can boost your confidence and you'll be more motivated to face the gnarly elements Winter surfing brings.

Longevity of the wetsuit
Investing in a good quality suit means it's likely to last longer. Some can be used over several seasons if properly cared for after use which results in reducing waste making it a more environmentally friendly choice.

Accessories
Complete your Winter surfing attire with some good-quality warm gloves and boots. Ranging from 3mm to 7mm and come in different styles depending on personal preference. If you tend to feel the cold more than most, it is recommended to get round-toe boots and lobster claw gloves or mittens to allow maximum heat generation. Split-toe boots are also available. It is said by users that they allow you to feel more under your board during critical manoeuvres. 
* 5 Finger gloves
* Lobster claw
* Mittens
Some wetsuits come with an integrated hood which minimises water flushing down the neck keeping you warmer. Or you can get a separate hood which is also effective at taking the sting off when you duckdive the heavy sets rolling in. See all our hooded wetsuits available for adults and kids.
Thermal neoprene layers can also be worn under your wetsuit for extra warmth and some have attached hoods also.

See our full range of top-quality Autumn/Winter wetsuits, gloves, boots and hoods.

Not sure which size to order? Contact our Customer Service team or take advantage of our FREE SHIPPING & FREE RETURNS* service. T&Cs apply